REFERRING to the "recent" report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) on the Archery/Bower suites at Abbey Care Village, Scorton, I should like to voice my own observations (D&S Times, Apr 14).

This report was carried out six months ago, and no account was taken of the considerable improvements carried out since then, which have been acknowledged by the CQC.

My close friend moved into the Archery unit 11 months ago and I have nothing but praise for the conscientious, hard-working staff who look after her. They are fully aware of all her needs and always treat her with respect, dignity and humour despite the the severity of her late stage Alzheimer’s. Her needs are complex and she cannot recall what happened just a few moments ago – like many of the other patients.

Yes, there were problems with aggressive behaviour from seriously ill patients but these have been dealt with.

The two units have now been merged onto one floor.

I should like to thank the staff for their on-going professional care, friendly approach and patience which they have shown to my friend as she battles with this cruel illness.

Noel Ashworth, Redmire